Forgiving Yourself

Guilt and shame are different. Guilt refers to the sense of having done something wrong. Shame refers to the sense of feeling unworthy. Guilt says, “I cheated.” Shame says, “I am a cheater.” Guilt says, “I failed.” Shame says, “I am a failure.” Guilt says, “I need forgiveness.” Shame says, “I am unforgiveable.” The Holy Spirit convicts us, which makes us feel guilty for what we did. The Devil condemns us, which makes us feel ashamed for who we are. In Luke 7, we listen to a conversation Jesus has with a woman who feels ashamed for who she is. She has not just sinned. She is a sinner. She feels unworthy. She feels unloved. She feels alone. She is ashamed. While Jesus's forgiveness removes her guilt, it is her faith that removes her shame.